World scrambles for 10-minute test for virus

Australian organisations have joined a global clamour for access
to new tests for bird flu that can detect the virus in just 10
minutes.

But experts have urged caution, saying their accuracy should be
thoroughly assessed before being considered for use here.

The tests, launched this month by Singapore biotechnology firm
Rockeby, which has laboratories in Perth, could be used for
screening in airports, schools and hospitals should a pandemic
break out.

The tests are a screening method for humans that involve a nose
or throat swab, and an on-site test for poultry.

Both return a result within 10 minutes, which, in the event of a
pandemic, could reduce the need for large-scale quarantining of
suspected carriers.
Present tests must be conducted in laboratories and can take
anywhere from four hours to two days.

A spokeswoman for Health Minister Tony Abbott said the Federal
Government had not investigated the specific tests, but was
interested in the technology.

But she said the tests would need approval from the World Health
Organisation before being considered for use here.